The Lloydminster Bobcats organization had its best season in franchise history this past year.
The 2015-16 hockey season saw the Bobcats’ earn their most wins in a season in franchise history, make the 3rd round of the playoffs, and the finals of the RBC Cup last weekend.
Whether owing to the Bobcats’ loss at the RBC Cup or not, next season will see a new Assistant Coach and General Manager, amongst the ranks of the team’s staff. Travis Clayton has been hired on to fill that role. Clayton previously coached the Lloydminster Bandit Pipeline AAA Midget Bobcats.
“I would like to thank Gord and the rest of the Bobcats organization for giving me this opportunity. I look forward to working with Gord and continuing the success the Bobcats have had over the last few years,” says Clayton.
Clayton contributed to the AAA Bobcats’ journey not only to the Alberta Midget Hockey League Championships, but to the Pacific Regionals, and then the Telus Cup Nationals.
In his youth, Clayton played in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League to start his career, with the North Battleford North Stars.
As well, the Bobcats have recently announced that current Assistant Coach and Assistant GM, Garry VanHereweghe will be staying with the team, but in a personnel role for this coming season. After being an integral part of the Bobcats coaching staff and front office for the past three years, VanHereweghe will remain with the team as Director of Player Personnel.
VanHereweghe has been given an active role in recruiting future players and helping them achieve hockey opportunities beyond the AJHL, in the NCAA, CIS, or ACAC through academics.
“We’re very pleased to keep Garry on board as we continue to grow the Lloydminster Bobcats organization,” says Head Coach and General Manager Gord Thibodeau. “His experience in junior hockey provides a great deal of value to our team.”
VanHereweghe has coached hockey at the Junior ‘A’ and Major Junior level in Western Canada and has a level of knowledge and passion for the game that will continue to be a huge asset for the Bobcats.